Graphene composites for solvent-resistant rubbers (DuraGraf-R)

Important results from the project

- Masterbatches by 2DFab were successfully produced for small dry (Trelleborg) and solvent mixing (RISE): good for both systems as confirmed by SEM - Positive trend in solvent resistance (cobb tests) and electrical conductivity, as measured in uncured nanocomposite with increasing rGO content for solvent-mixed materials - Solvent resistance has not been confirmed to be improved in cured materials from Trelleborg, produced from graphene - Directionality was observed in the graphene-based nanocomposites, which emphasizes the behavior and use of 2D materials

Expected long term effects

1) Positive trend in solvent resistance (cobb tests) and electrical conductivity, as measured in uncured nanocomposite with increasing rGO content for solvent-mixed materials 2) solvent mixing depends on the surface chemistry of the nano-additive: experimental trials 3) The NBR based material from Trelleborg has a lot of fillers already, such as carbon black, so changes in electrical properties are not that easy to follow, 4) Curing of the solvent-mixed materials and the addition of CNTs was not possible, but it is highly recommended to continue with them

Approach and implementation

1) Masterbatches were a good way to do these mixes, both in industrial and lab scale 2) More studies regarding the different graphene-based species are needed to reach further conclusions. For that matter, CNTs are strongly suggested to be used in this material. 3) Curing of the material is also needed to assess the real possibilities of the nanofiller addition. 4) Electrical related assessment can be tricky, as the material is fully loaded with additives, and other characterization methods should be explored.